Mount Index, Mountain summit in King County, United States.
Mount Index rises to 5,476 feet in the North Cascades region with dramatic granite walls and dense forest cover. The jagged ridges and steep rock faces define the alpine landscape of this area.
The mountain's composition formed more than 140 million years ago as igneous rock on the ocean floor. These ancient oceanic origins were later pushed to the surface through tectonic activity.
Granite from this peak was quarried to build iconic Seattle structures like the Smith Tower. This local stone shaped the region's architecture and connects the mountain directly to the city's development.
Reaching the summit requires technical climbing skills, proper equipment, and good route-finding through several options. The terrain is steep and exposed, so visitors should have alpine experience.
The granite here contains specific mineral compositions that make it particularly suitable for climbing. The crystal structure and surface texture of the stone create excellent conditions for rock climbers.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
